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Monday, April 30, 2007

Daily Draw: Tarot Nova ~ Judgment

Some readers have problems differentiating between the Judgment and Justice cards. I look at this card and clearly see that the route to real freedom lies within the lock and key. Judgment in the World sense means abiding by the law of the land, the heart, and the higher power. Is there any amongst us that can say they have never broken the law? Probably not. I certainly have.

I'm reminded by this card that in my small world breaking any law puts me in a prison of my own making. Guilt, knotted stomach, heavy heart...so conversely knowing this Judgment I can by my own choice be the key and lock to flying free.

Sunday, April 29, 2007

Daily Draw: Tarot Nova ~ 10 of Wands

A new week a fresh deck. This small deck goes by a number of identifiers as the box simply says Tarot. Some call it the Running Press deck, others call it Tarot Nova. I'm using it this week in honor of an AT member who retired hers as too worn to even use. I've avoided using this deck because the small size combined with the stiff cards makes it difficult to shuffle. The art is charming though and quite to the point so it is worth the effort to accommodate the cardstock.

In this version the Wand carrier has his head up and has worked out a way to carry the Wands so the burden is not overwhelming. Often this card shows the carrier arriving at the end of his destination as exhausted and broken. I take heart from today's draw. We have committed ourselves to a job that could very easily turn into a burden, but I refuse to let it become so. There are always options in approaching a duty and since the goal is so important I'll keep my head up with my eyes to that and think outside the box for solutions to difficulties.

Saturday, April 28, 2007

Daily Draw: Tarocco Bizzarro ~ 8 of Swords

The cards seldom fail to get to the point. Today I'll be surrounded by people who like to bait, prod, poke, and generally try to get a rise out of others.

8 of Swords reminds me that offense is the best defense and self defense when called upon is sometimes the only option. If I see it getting started I'll change the subject, move myself physically, offer beverages, ask questions that draw on their talents or interests...and there is always the weather. Where would we be without the weather to talk about? It is the universal subject. En Guarde!

Friday, April 27, 2007

Daily Draw: Tarocco Bizzarro ~ 2 of Swords

My days are going in a much different direction than they were a few weeks ago. This is the second time this week I've drawn the 2 of swords. We are making big changes, and research and discovery with the attendant decisions are at the fore-front each day.

With this card I have the notice that we will find two equally balanced options and will need to duel the pros and cons sharply in order to reach a beneficial solution. Better two good options than no options, eh?

Thursday, April 26, 2007

Daily Draw: Tarocco Bizzarro ~ 3 of Swords

Humm...this is a much different image than the usual swords through a heart seen on Rider-Waite style cards. Since they are all pointing up I get the impression that I do indeed have a startling discovery or revelation coming but not necessarily bad news. The lions appear to be in a defensive posture, somewhat alarmed, but not in attack mode.

I am reminded by this card to not be a Pollyanna, but whatever is revealed, I need to recognize the positive side as well as the negative. Life always goes on no matter what, how we choose to live that life is a choice we make for ourselves. I'm interested to see what shall be revealed!

Wednesday, April 25, 2007

Daily Draw: Tarocco Bizzarro ~ 8 of Cups

Mature thoughts and feelings. Anyone over the age of 40 has grasped the understanding that mentally we never really grow up, whatever that means. We may seldom turn those thought into actions but we still think silly thoughts, we still dream fantastic dreams, we still have a child inside rocking the boat from time to time.

I am reminded with this card that the decisions we have approaching require all my mature consideration with long term consequences at the forefront. The fun and silly side can come out another day. Now is the time for deep thinking and serious review of plans.

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Daily Draw: Tarocco Bizzarro ~ Two of Swords

Decisions decisions. The blazing sun shouts go ahead, the waning moon says think it over for awhile. The crossed swords say there are pitfalls and pluses either way I go. The ancient castle in the background pinpoints where my decision lies.

I'm reminded there are seldom perfect solutions to decisions, to think the pros and cons through and then go with the best option I can with the facts I have. Then move on, don't wring hands and second guess myself. So much life energy is burned up doing the shoulda woulda coulda dance. I'm not going there.

Monday, April 23, 2007

Daily Draw: Tarocco Bizzarro ~ Queen of Coins

This Queen of Coins thrives on abundance, craves stability and order. But too much concentration on worldly goods brings as many problems as too little...Pick up any paper and read about the tribulations of the rich.

This queen's expression reminds me that enough is enough, to share what I have with those less fortunate, and that the suit of coins represents not just monetary wealth but also the earth. To do no harm is the credo of those who have a nature based faith and all I have to do is look around me to know they have that right. Ecology and economy go hand in hand and the bad choices we've made in the last 100 years are coming home to roost.

Sunday, April 22, 2007

Daily Draw: Tarocco Bizzarro ~ King of Batons

The deck of the week is Italian, published by Dal Negro, the artist is Franco Bruna. He also created one featuring fantastical shoes I'd love to have.

The King of Batons is a take charge guy, in most cases a my way or the highway guy. Successful at whatever he turns his hand to, he is impatient with the slow to comprehend. His snarling dog much reflects his general outlook. His knowledge and life experience can enrich and improve most any situation if he is properly approached.

You have to laugh, the cards are so specific... we found out last night that my in-laws are coming to live next to us when they get their farm sold. This card is my father-in-law to a T. I am reminded that while this is an elegant solution to a sticky problem, all will not be wine and roses. Personalities will need to be acknowledged and moderated for this to work.

Saturday, April 21, 2007

Daily Draw: Medieval Cat Tarot ~ Two of Cups

The cementing and growth of partnerships or friendships. Or a pact to keep a secret or unholy alliance. Spiritual Tarot by Signe Echols also indicated compassion but warns against trying to help those who will not be helped.

I'm reminded by this card of my personal magnet for what I think of as broken birds. To not get sucked into perpetual life dramas. Some people seem to not only create but thrive in crisis mode, and are not open to solution or resolution. They don't want a way out, they want attention, sympathy, excitement, whatever. To offer the hand of friendship to all, but know the difference between sharing personal concerns and getting sucked into an emotional vortex not of my making.

Friday, April 20, 2007

Daily Draw: Medieval Cat Tarot ~ The Chariot

There are a lot of facets to this card but when I draw it for myself I think "square peg, round hole". All that focus and drive displayed by the driver yet the pullers are always going in diverse directions.

I'm reminded by this card to put my best efforts into things that matter, that make a difference and bring joy to my life. Expending energies in unproductive areas is akin to pushing a pebble up a mountain with my nose. I might get to the top but why? I need to learn to say Why more often.

Thursday, April 19, 2007

Daily Draw: Medieval Cat Tarot ~ Knight of Wands

Once the Knight of Wands gets fired up about something there is no holding back. He leaps in ready to do whatever actions it takes to complete his mission. Much like me, there is no grey with this Knight, it is either black or white. I'm in or I'm out. If it is something I'm interested in there is no lurking or standing on the side lines.

I'm reminded by this card to keep reign on my ruthlessness, not to be so quick to remove something from my life because I've moved on to something new. Just because that is my way doesn't make it the right way. Some moderation is in order for this facet of my personality.

Wednesday, April 18, 2007

Daily Draw: Medieval Cat Tarot ~ Two of Coins

The balance needed between work and play, private and public life. We busy multi-taskers often force a schedule and say I'm short on time, can't do that. I said it twice yesterday about doing something I'd love to do.

This card reminds me there is no such thing as finding time, we need to review our priorities occasionally and make time for the good things of life. These are the things that usually get shoved to the background but they are what make life worth living.

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

Wands are the suit of action, and Pages generally rush in where fools fear to tread but this Page seems to be contemplating his wand, or warming his hands, or receiving a message from a burning bush.

This card reminds me today that old tools can have new uses, that what I most seek could be right in front of my nose, and to count the blessings in each experience life brings me. Looking and thinking beyond my normal confines can indeed bring great reward. I don't need something else or more...I need to better utilize what I already have.

Monday, April 16, 2007

Daily Draw: Medieval Cat Tarot ~ Judgment

Time to pay the piper, pay my dues, reap the consequences of my actions. Also time to receive long awaited and overdue rewards for my efforts. Judgment is the sentencing time, too late for apologies, do-overs, or putting finishing touches on the big project.

I'm reminded by this card today to put aside my own judgmental personality. Being judgmental about someone else doesn't make a lick of difference and only dims my own daily joy. Everyone has something to offer and to teach; my adverse opinion is immaterial and only creates a unattractive narrow-mindedness.

Sunday, April 15, 2007

Daily Draw: Medieval Cat Tarot ~ The Sun

Another deck featuring our feline friends, from U.S. Games. The horse rears up in a field of sunflowers whose symbolism is often seen in Tarot. Their faces turn through the day to follow the path of the sun and the Greek legend of Helios and Clytie's tragic love is reflected in this movement. They are also a symbol of longevity.

This card reminds me that while I seek personal growth and learning, not everything I do needs improvement. I do get it right sometimes and the Sun card is the promise I can move forward with confidence.

Saturday, April 14, 2007

Daily Draw: Chinese Tarot ~ Death

In the early days of tarot reading people would actually faint if this card came up - Oooooo you'll be dead by dusk sort of thing. We've come a long way since then in understanding the human psyche, self-empowerment, and common sense of tarot divination. Yes, if you never see another post here you'll know I died and never got a chance to chose next weeks deck for my daily draw readings.

But what this card means to me today is the end of something that is outside my control. In the Fool's journey this is card XIII not the end of the journey but a mid-point; a path we've chosen will end, a companion is lost, a job will fold, a partnership will dissolve, something big will have to be replaced...

I'm reminded by this card that all things come to an end, the wheel always turns. To learn and grow with whatever experience befalls me and to continue on my path a wiser better person that I was before.

Friday, April 13, 2007

Daily Draw: Chinese Tarot ~ The Moon

My favorite card in any deck, strikingly different in the Chinese Tarot as so many are. The goddess in this card holds a hare, a symbol of longevity.

Longevity is certainly something to ponder long and hard. My baby-boomer generation will be a society of haves and have nots in our old age. I believe we will be the longest living humans in history and will be part of the largest exchange of money in history in our inheritances. Our parents came through 2 world wars and the great depression of the 30's and saved for their old age. We on the other hand have never known want (I'm speaking very generally) and haven't saved a dime. Some of us were very successful and some will inherit fortunes, but most of us haven't managed to save a dime, have spent freely on instant gratification and bought the right to work until we die with those foolishly spent dollars. And that doesn't even begin to address trying to live from hand to mouth when our health fails.

La Luna reminds me to take care of myself physically and financially because there won't be anyone in my old age to champion and care for me.

Thursday, April 12, 2007

Daily Draw: Chinese Tarot ~ Page of Coins

A Page is usually seen as a beginner, someone rushing off helter-skelter, but here it is portrayed as a person of maturity, robes suggesting accomplishment and security, as does his home with large high walls and mature plantings.

This card & yesterday's remind me that I get paid to think around corners, to problem-shoot, to work outside the box. And that I never will know it all, to always be a knowledge seeker. Last night I spent the better part of 5 hours in ER with a client. They could find no reason for her symptoms and suggested we 'see your Dr. in the morning'.

This card reminds me that I'm the front line defense, and as soon as I saw it I realized what the problem was. The one thing they didn't test her for. Come day break I'm off to fix it.

Wednesday, April 11, 2007

Daily Draw: Chinese Tarot ~ Heavenly Master

Generally known as the Hierophant in most decks, The Chinese Tarot gives us Chang Tao Ling, a great healer and magician and first teacher of Taoism.

My mother used to say we needed to learn something new each day. I expect we do, but how often do I incorporate new knowledge into my daily life? So often human nature causes us to do things the way they've always been done. It's easier, we think its quicker, and we think 'if it isn't broke don't fix it'. But how many times in my life have I slapped my forehead and said 'why didn't I think of that'? Simple new ideas that made a task so much easier.

I'm reminded by this teaching card to not only learn something new today, but to incorporate it into my life. I don't want to be a sheeple, just one in a herd. I want to be an individual.

Tuesday, April 10, 2007

Daily Draw: Chinese Tarot ~ 9 of Coins

The figure on the 9 of Coins is the immortal god Liu Hai who is the god of needle-makers. In ancient China and perhaps even today these figures were stamped on Joss papers and were worn or burned for luck on festival days. The 3-legged toad was his constant companion and is always seen with Liu Hai.

I am reminded by this card that to be a financial success I must be open to success. Sometimes we inadvertently turn away wealth by having the attitude of politeness or 'I'm not worthy'. When it is offered I am worthy and I will accept.

Were I Chinese this would no doubt be my god of choice, being a sewing enthusiast and needleworker from the age of five.

Monday, April 9, 2007

The apprentice at the forge and the journeyman or master craftsman forming Chinese coins. Being good at your profession often translates literally to making coin.I drew this card on April 4th also.

This card can also remind that I am never too old to learn. The client I'm working with today has been a marvel to watch, in how she deals with people she meets. She always gets their name and something about them, and the next time we see them she remembers their name and inquires about their interest. We get the best service everywhere we go... Life is an apprenticeship also, and we're never to old to learn a better way of doing it.

Sunday, April 8, 2007

This deck is from US Games with art by Jui Guoliang and is one of the most beautiful decks I own. 6 of Cups is generally associated with childhood and nostalgia and faded images.

Not surprising I'd draw this card today as I'm working on a collage of my past with help from The Book of Me by Angie Pedersen. As the 'designated photo taker' in my family I have few adult photos of myself and only two on display. This book helps refocus some of that imbalance and has been fun to do. All of us have some painful memories but it is important to remember and pay homage to the good times, the special times, the gems of our pasts. This card reminds me of that importance.

Saturday, April 7, 2007

Daily Draw: Fantastic Menagerie ~ The Hermit

A loner, thinker, seeker, sometimes mentor. The Hermit requires no companionship, he or she is content with their own company. The knowledge or experience sought is of momentous kind, the sort that makes a lot of niggling questions fall into place with an Ah-Ha!

This card reminds me that activities that serve no purpose other than to eat up time also eat up my life. To devote quality time to self-enrichment of the soul and personal growth.

Friday, April 6, 2007

Daily Draw: Fantastic Menagerie ~ 8 of Wands

This is a 'get all your duck in a row' card. To be organized, efficient, quick...just DO it. I've heeded this advice today, I've been working steadily since 5:30 AM and the stack of completed tasks is impressive.

This card reminds me to remember my lessons from FlyLady. Keeping a workspace tidy makes the job go much quicker with better results. And to reward yourself...time for that cup of java and a walk in the sunshine with the dogs.

The Fantastic Menagerie Tarot is from a small creative publisher in Prague. I would highly recommend any of their decks, and be sure to get the kit, the books that come with their decks are a real delight and add much to the enjoyment of the card art, in this case based on French caricaturist and illustrator J.J. Grandville.

Thursday, April 5, 2007

Daily Draw: Fantastic Menagerie ~ King of Coins

King of Coins again. Can you tell I'm an entrepreneur? I have friends who never draw this suit. This fine fellow is situated in the lap of luxury; hand servants, regal attire, sunny clime, is that a hookah on the left?

Being a child of the 60's hookah = bong to me. But I have friends in a business group who started from nothing and have built a blazingly successful business based on hookahs. They have been successful because they have stayed true to 'sell what you know'. No they aren't flower children, but Egyptians. Hookah cafés are popular there, with fruit flavored tobacco. Like our Starbucks, they go there to hang out, relax, see and be seen, touch bases with friends.

What does that have to do with me? I'm reminded by this card that in business to do what I know. That is where success in this suit lies.

Wednesday, April 4, 2007

Daily Draw: Fantastic Menagerie ~ 8 of Coins

Today's card shows a room full of musicians doing what they do best, and doing it very well. The 8 of Coins is the card of the Master Craftsman, The Journeyman, the result of personal investment of time and practice that brings us finally to the pinnacle of success.

This card reminds me to work hard at what I do, but not to make hard work of it. If we approach our chosen work with a glad heart rather than another day of drudgery our lives will be much enriched.

Another take on this card could be 'jam session'. It is always fun to get together with like minded people and just jam, no rules, individual riffs, let creativity free, no stifling. That too can be one more way to achieve my personal pinnacle.

Tuesday, April 3, 2007

Daily Draw: Fantastic Menagerie ~ Ace of Swords

Laid out in a tarot spread with other cards it is easier to see the meaning of the draw. Standing alone in a daily draw a card can almost mean too much to decipher. Swords are the suit of discovery and as such, the Ace could be a bright idea, a clear decision, even a new conflict.

I have an appointment at 2 PM that could turn into a blow up if I don't control my temper. I'm reminded by this card to stick to the facts and think hard about a resolution that best serves my client's needs. Loosing my temper would only assure the other party of gaining the upper hand. I'm not going to let that happen.

Monday, April 2, 2007

Daily Draw: Fantastic Menagerie ~ Knight of Coins

This is the cautious careful knight. He much prefers municipal bonds to penny stocks, formal education over school of hard knocks, corporate life to entrepreneurship. The life of the turtle rather than the life of a rabbit. Nothing wrong with the cards advice today, although slow and careful isn't my normal pace. I'm reminded to think big decisions through, no jack-rabbit starts today.

Sunday, April 1, 2007

Daily Draw: Fantastic Menagerie ~ Ace of Coins

As the card shows, it's time to nurture relationships, home, career; something of this world. This advice covers so much of importance...I have a new client which always requires some hand holding. I have an old client whose family added a sizable monthly retainer, retroactive, on top of my fees to insure good service and as thanks for past services. I'm waffling on a decision about a stock purchase. I need to make a decision about new carpet. All these things are of the suit of Coins or Pentacles.

This card reminds me to get off the dime and get busy, nurture things financial. Good fortune is happenstance, but sound business decisions and a strong work ethic pay long term rewards. So off to work I go...

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Why Tarot, you ask?

Tarot opened previously closed doors to my own heart with it's merciless quest for the truth, nothing but the truth. They flay the soul and make me say thank you afterward.Each hour spent with my cards is a new lesson to be learned. Viva la Journey.